Why Watching Bad Presidents in Paradise is the Most Entertaining Fiction Yet!

Just a heads up to my fellow West Wing enthusiasts: if you’re thinking about diving into Disney+’s latest political drama set in Washington, Paradise, don’t expect it to be a modern replica of Aaron Sorkin’s iconic White House series.

Indeed, the series does feature Secret Service agent Xavier Collins, played by Sterling K Brown, in close proximity with US President Cal Bradford, portrayed by James Marsden. However, without revealing too many details, the narrative swiftly departs from the grandeur of the White House’s porticoes and heads off to a location that’s quite distant from Pennsylvania Avenue.

Bradford, often seen in flashbacks, carries traits reminiscent of both JFK and Bill Clinton. He’s charismatic, compassionate, and has a relatable human side. In a candid moment with Collins, who seems unimpressed, he reveals, “I sip whiskey in the Oval Office, I can’t recall the eighth vice-president, and I’m unsure where Syria appears on a map.” Could there be a romantic side to him? Perhaps, as he acknowledges that the First Lady supported another candidate.

In this manner, Bradford becomes part of the collection of U.S. television leaders who offer insights into how power affects individuals, be they male or female. The series provides a glimpse into their political acumen as well as their personal strengths and weaknesses, all magnified by their role’s importance.

The concept of a diminutive figure commanding a grand setting, a notion coined by Sorkin as “tales of monarchs and palaces,” continues to captivate authors. And the contradiction between the small character and the grandeur surrounding them remains amusingly appealing, at least in fictional worlds.

In a more straightforward manner, “His primary partner, undeniably, scolds him, ‘You’re the head of the free world. I expected you to be a superior person, the one I advocated for,’ before yielding to his hug. Influence prevails.

Compared to the malevolent nature of President Francis Underwood, portrayed by Kevin Spacey in Netflix’s House of Cards, Grant seems like just small fries. As Beau Willimon, the show’s writer, put it, “There’s a constant risk that power can lead to corruption in politics.” However, on television, power can also provide some of the most memorable dialogue, as when Underwood addressed viewers directly, “The path to power is lined with hypocrisy and casualties. Never feel remorse.

It’s true that there are more dignified television presidents, but they may not offer as much intrigue for storytelling. In such cases, writers choose to portray these characters with a slight twist (in all aspects), while focusing more on the individuals associated with them instead.

24 featured Dennis Haysbert as President David Palmer, who is credited for contributing to the path that led to Barack Obama’s presidency. However, it was Kiefer Sutherland’s character, Jack Bauer, who truly dominated the show. Similarly, Martin Sheen’s performance on The West Wing initially positioned Jed Bartlet as a secondary character. Yet, as Sheen captivated audiences with his scene-stealing portrayal, Jed Bartlet ultimately emerged as a significant figure in the series.

In a previous conversation, I asked Sheen what he’d do if given control for a day, to which he replied, “That scenario is unlikely.” He shared that he’d prefer to be joining protests and possibly getting arrested alongside others, rather than being in charge.

This guy is exceptionally wise; he manages to steer clear of negativity without becoming dull. Primarily, Willimon was spot-on in his reasoning for focusing on the dark aspects of these potent personalities. It’s entertaining to observe and also acts as a warning tale.

Heaven is currently being released on Disney+, with the first three episodes accessible for streaming right away. Why not subscribe to Disney+ today, which costs only £4.99 a month?

2025-02-11 03:34

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